We are proud to be part of the AFFIRM network of churches joining with others to declare ourselves to be fully inclusive of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. All are welcome here.

Category: All of God

Burrard Street Story Guild participants will share the story of creation during worship on Nov. 25. They have been learning the story by practicing drama this fall in Sunday school.

BURRARD ST. STORY GUILD

Leaders: Tama Ward, Robyn Williams

A program unique to CMUC Burrard St. Story Guild had its inaugural launch in the spring of 2018 with its storytelling of the prophet Jonah. Story Guild uses theatre arts to invite children (ages 3-12) into the stories of the Hebrew and Christian traditions. Participants are given lots of options as regards the extent of their involvement on the stage (depending on confidence and skill levels), yet regardless of experience or training (none required) all the participants work together to build a storytelling event that touches the hearts of young and old alike.

Rehearsals for the Story Guild productions take place on Sunday mornings from 10:45-11:45.

Would you like to better understand transgender experiences through the lens of Christian faith? You are invited to CMUC’s Affirm screening of “Belonging in the Body: Transgender Journeys of Faith” on November 14 in partnership with Generous Space Ministries.

The film, released in 2018, shares the stories of 11 trans Christians along with their experience of church, scripture and faith. Following the one-hour film in the sanctuary, there will be a chance to ask questions to a panel of trans Christians. A reception with refreshments will follow in the Centre for Peace. This is a FREE event open to all with an optional opportunity to donate toward the work of Generous Space.

Check out the trailer here:

Evening begins at 7 pm at the church. Panel discussion follows film. Reception will happen afterwards in the Centre for Peace. This is a FREE event with donations accepted for the work of Generous Space. Come are you are.

Canadian Memorial becomes an Affirming Ministry!

On June 10, 2018 after a full year of education and reflection spread throughout worship, numerous events, and monthly display tables, Canadian Memorial voted resoundingly to become an Affirming ministry. We join St. Andrew’s Wesley as the second Affirming United Church in Vancouver and stand with over 200 Affirming United Church ministries across Canada in witnessing to the wider community that God’s love extends to everyone equally and without reserve.

Affirming ministries declare in both words and actions that God loves and accepts people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. They commit to continued education and work for justice and inclusion of all people: combating racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia; increasing accessibility; and challenging bias and discrimination based on appearance, culture, class, or age.

What does this mean for us? We already had an inclusive marriage policy and LGBTQ folk in the congregation and leadership, but you might notice some new language in our mission and values (check out our inclusion statement!) and more importantly new signage on our website, bulletins, and church building as we “come out” to the wider community as Affirming. We’ll also be planning an official celebration of our Affirm status for the fall.

Our Affirm working group will be working closely with the leadership over the next year on the action plan idea prioritized by the congregation. If you’re interested in facilitating the next part of our journey as an Affirming congregation, whether you have a little time or a lot, you’re a planner or doer, an introvert or extrovert, technophile or luddite, there is space for you! Please contact Emily Simpson (emilyasimpson@gmail.com).

Our Spring Celebration featured the launch of the Burrard Street Story Guild, and incredible music from our own Choir and Band. Followed by a BBQ and dance party. Pictures below (and on Facebook here).